Benefits of Inversion Exercises
Remember back to when you were a little kid and how fun and refreshing it was to hang upside down from the monkey bars or your favorite tree? Or how uplifting and exciting it was when dad would pick you up by the ankles and spin you around, flinging you through the air as you screamed with delight?
When was the last time you got yourself upside down? Some safe inversion exercises on your Total Gym XLS or FIT might be just what your body needs for relaxation, increased blood flow and a host of other benefits you’ll learn by reading this article.
The yogis have been exalting the benefits of inversion for over 5000 years. In my 20 years of practicing yoga, I have rarely taken a class that does not include several inversion poses in the ending portion of class. In between my yoga sessions, I love the fact that I can use my Total Gym to safely get into inversion.
Caution: Is very important that you don’t hold your inversion for longer than feels comfortable to you. Even more importantly, when you come out of the inversion position, take plenty of time to let your body acclimate. Sit up very slowly and take some deep breaths to ensure you are not feeling dizzy before popping up. If you’re new to inversions, try it for a minute or so and see how you feel before holding it any longer.
Three Powerful Benefits Of Getting Your Body Upside Down On Your Total Gym
- Blood Flow to the Brain
- It Just Feels Good!
- More Exercise Repertoire
Due to the laws of gravity, getting upside down gets our blood moving under different forces. This provides increased blood flow and increased oxygen to the brain, which can increase cognitive function.
Some theories are that flushing the adrenal glands releases neurotransmitters and endorphins to instantly lift your mood. This may sound like scientific hyperbole but in over 20 years of experience, I have heard this repeatedly from my clients when I get them inverted. The blood flow, the natural traction and decompression of the spine just feels good. When I sense a client has had a long day on their feet or a stressful day, I start them in inversion and relish in the purrs of relaxation with accompanying “ohs and ahs”.
What a bonus! Not only can we feel good and reap all these benefits, inversion allows us to explore new exercises on the Total Gym equipment. Check out the video below and I’ll show you some of my client’s favorite Total Gym inversion exercises and workouts.
Have FUN and enjoy – but FYI, while most people love being inverted, there are some people should not be upside down, especially if you are/have:
- Pregnant – always check with your doctor
- Blood Pressure or Heart Issues
- Eye issues – Glaucoma or Pink Eye
- Bone Problems
- Disorientation Problems
Bottom line, always check with your physician before embarking on any new exercise regimen.
Happy Halloween my fellow Bat-people. Enjoy your inversion exercises 🙂
